By Dana Corwin, Director, Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services
Staying healthy in Chautauqua County isn’t just about going to the doctor or taking medicine. It also depends on having enough food to eat, a safe place to live, and reliable transportation to get to appointments. Many people in the county rely on Medicaid for healthcare, and about 27% of older adults are covered by this insurance. That’s why programs like New York State’s 1115 Medicaid Waiver, also known as the New York Health Equity Reform, are so important. This program connects people to services that address health-related social needs (HRSN)—supports that can make a real difference in daily life.
At the heart of the program are Social Care Networks (SCNs), partnerships of local organizations working together to help people get the support they need. In Chautauqua County, the SCN is coordinated by the Western New York Integrated Care Collaborative (WNYICC), with local partners like us- Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services which focuses on supporting older adults in the community.
Through the Social Care Network, residents can receive help in many areas. For example, someone recovering from a hospital stay might get home-delivered meals, rides to follow-up appointments, or guidance from a social care navigator. The network also helps with making homes safer and more accessible, applying for stable housing, nutrition education, childcare, financial management, and access to necessary household items.
Medicaid members in Chautauqua County can ask their healthcare provider about social needs screening, contact local organizations that provide screenings, or complete a self-screening online at wnyscn.org. People are screened using a standard tool to identify the types of support they need, and then connected to the right programs. A tracking system ensures that services are actually delivered. This approach helps people not only get medical care but also the social supports that allow them to live healthier, safer, and more independent lives.
Research from the Centers for Disease Control shows that addressing health-related social needs can prevent hospital visits, reduce stress, and strengthen community health (CDC source). The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services also requires healthcare providers to screen everyone for HRSN (health-related social needs).
The impact of the 1115 Waiver and the Social Care Network goes far beyond individual health. It’s about more than medicine—it’s about building strong support systems, connecting people to resources, and helping everyone in the community thrive.
If you have questions about services, programs, or benefits for older adults and caregivers, you can contact NY Connects Helpline: 716-753-4582. Or ccnyc@chqgov.com.
The Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services is here to guide, connect, and advocate for long-term services and supports so older adults can remain in our community.
